Why Many Old Apartments in Israel Were Constructed on Pillars

Israel has a unique architectural character that has stood the test of time, particularly in residential buildings. One of the defining features of these old apartments is their construction on pillars, a practice known as piloti. This unconventional building method serves multiple purposes and reflects the functional and aesthetic needs of both the architects and the society of the period.

Historical Context and Architectural Influence

The construction of apartments on pillars in Israel can be traced back to the pre-state Mandate era. The International Modernist architectural movement, popularized by the seminal work Towards a New Architecture by Le Corbusier, inspired many early Israeli architects. Zeev Rechter, a Russian emigre, was one such architect who embraced this approach, contributing to the iconic International Convention Centre in Jerusalem and the renowned Mann auditorium in Tel Aviv's Habima Square complex.

The Purpose of Constructing Apartments on Pillars

The decision to construct apartments on pillars in Israel was driven by a combination of practical and social factors. One of the primary reasons was the exchangeability and fashion of the time. Many residents preferred living on higher floors, away from ground-level issues, including insects, rodents, and stray cats. Additionally, the ground floor apartments were better designed with separate lines to the sewer system, making them more suitable for use in public areas like bike rooms, gas cooking, refuse disposal, and public seating.

Practical Benefits

Apartment buildings constructed on pillars provided several practical advantages:

Passive Cooling: With open skylights, the construction allowed for significant passive cooling, enhancing air circulation through the building. Public Space: This design created a shaded public space at the entrance, which became a community gathering place. Children could even play in this area. Flooding and Privacy: Upper floors were less prone to flooding, and the design helped maintain better privacy and security. The elevated structure also reduced the risk of break-ins and infestations from the building's garden. Parking Space: In an era when car ownership was less common, the space under the building provided room for a few cars to park, a significant consideration back then.

Construction Standards Over Time

As the years progressed, the construction requirements in Israel evolved. Today, all new buildings must include a safe room that extends down to the ground level, part of an earthquake "belt" designed to prevent structural failure during seismic activity. This and other evolving standards reflect the changing needs and priorities of the populace.

Conclusion

While the construction of apartments on pillars is now a rarity in modern Israel, it remains an intriguing aspect of the country's architectural heritage. The combination of fashion, practicality, and social considerations made this construction method a unique and enduring feature of early Israeli apartment buildings.

Further Reading and References

Zeev Rechter: Architect known for his iconic designs during the Mandate and early Israel era. International Convention Centre in Jerusalem: A testament to International Modernist architecture.

Learn more about the architecture of Israel.